Updos and braids are a combination made in formal-hair heaven, but they usually only work one of a few ways: wound around in a chignon, pinned up in a milkmaid braid, or French braided back. At The Lorax premiere, though, Taylor Swift stunned the crowd with a messy, textured braid/low chignon combination that was unlike anything we'd ever seen before. In practice, it actually seems pretty easy to Read more

Everyone loves a pretty braid, but creating perfectly smooth plaits is difficult, verging on well-nigh impossible for those of us with layers. Which is why the disheveled braids coming down the runway are good news. They're pretty and fashion forward, but they allow for plenty of loose strands, not-quite-right crossovers, and stuck-out pieces, too. It's a braid new world, so don't be afraid to Read more

Braids are a pretty big deal around here, and although they're always popular, 2011 was a huge year for plait lovers. We saw everything from a sudden fad for rainbow-colored braids to messy fishtails and "hidden" plaits. Which look deserves to be called the best, though? Check out the year's best trends and decide for yourself. Read more

From faux-fur vests to leopard-print anything, Rachel Zoe always seems to find a way to make just about any piece of clothing or accessory look covetable. And when it comes to her hair, it's the same story. At her Zoe Media Group launch party last night, Rachel combined two trends — braids and ponytails — into one style. To re-create the look yourself, start by applying a wave-enhancing Read more

With holiday season here, there has never been a better time to try out a new way to style your hair. And this season, there are plenty of big trends to inspire. From tight topknots to billowy braids, it's time to hair-dress to impress. Read more